Massage Therapy for Mental Health

A growing body of research supports the positive impact of massage therapy for relieving stress, anxiety, and depression. 

How Touch Can Help the Mind

In the United States, almost half of adults will experience a mental health challenge during their lifetime. A growing body of research is supporting the positive impact of massage therapy for relief of stress, anxiety, and depression. In fact, many studies indicate it can provide benefits similar to psychotherapy for certain conditions. Explore the resources below to learn more about the ways massage can improve mental health and well-being.

Massage Therapy Benefits for Mental Health:

  • Massage therapy has shown to significantly reduce stress on both physical and psychological levels.
  • A study published in Military Medicine reports that military veterans indicated significant reductions in ratings of anxiety, worry, depression, and physical pain after massage.
  • Research indicates that massage can improve mood and reduce depression in those living with chronic pain, as well as in cancer patients, pregnant women, and people living with chronic disease.

Related Online Continuing Education Courses

Self-Care Strategies for Preventing Burnout

$37 members / $62 non-members  2.5 CE credits

Discover how burnout can affect massage therapists in the workplace. Understand the problems that can occur and the appropriate prevention and management strategies. Explore wellness models and self-care practices, including mindfulness techniques to protect against emotional exhaustion.

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Massage Therapy for Depressed Clients

$30 members / $50 non-members  2 CE credits

People are often surprised when a health professional suggests that seemingly unrelated symptoms might be occurring as a result of depression. Find out how massage therapy can help manage the sometimes overwhelming symptoms of depression.

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